That’s a wrap
Reflecting on a big bright 2025
As the year comes to a close, it feels like the perfect moment to pause and reflect on 2025. My favourite way to do that is with an #artvsartist image.
This year I had three books and one anthology released:
✨ Boldilocks — written by Deborah Frenkel, published by EK Books
✨ Harries: The Lifeguard from Bondi Beach — written by Emily & Anthony “Harries” Carroll, published by EK Books
✨ I Am Me — written by Mitch Tambo, published by Allen & Unwin
With new books comes all the joy of launches, signings, school visits, promotional events and even tv appearances —each one a highlight in its own way.
I also completed MATS Portfolio Bootcamp, and it was such a treat to be featured as a success story in the MATS newsletter. And another milestone was being included in the Just Write For Kids anthology, Somewhere Lost, with my artwork on the cover. Sales proceeds go to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.
So what’s ahead for 2026?
Honestly… more drawing.
I’ve written and illustrated new stories that I’m excited to keep developing. I have a few private commissions lined up. I’m planning to catch up on any Art Gym: Live Drawing Workshops & Illustration Tutorials, maybe dive into another MATS course, and continue being part of the wonderful creative communities I love illoguild , SCBWI, and CBCA Eastern Suburbs.
And a small change: I’ll be writing fewer newsletters next year—only when there’s a big, meaningful update to share.
Wishing you a beautiful festive season, a joyful New Year, and plenty of space to keep creating.
💛 Carla
Follow along on Instagram → @carlahoffenbergdraws
More about me and my books → carlahoffenberg.com
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My Books
I AM ME (Written by Mitch Tambo; Allen & Unwin; September 2025),
Harries - The Lifeguard from Bondi Beach (Written by Anthony ‘Harries’ Carroll and Emily Carroll; EK Books; October 2025)
Boldilocks (Written by Deborah Frenkel; EK Books; September 2025).
Somewhere Lost (Anthology, Daisy Lane Publishing; May 2025)
Our Australian Heart (Anthology, Daisy Lane Publishing; 2024)
Mia’s Glamma (Written by Josie Montano; IP Kids (Interactive Publications); 2023)
Little Shark Lulu is Sleeping (Written by Josie Montano and Charlotte Birkmanis; IP Kids (Interactive Publications); 2022)